Concerns About Head Injuries and Spine Pain: What to Know

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Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask you two questions.
The first one is about my boyfriend, who is the same age as me, 16 years old.
He accidentally hit the back of his head against a hard wall.
A few seconds after the impact, he felt very dizzy, and when he got home, he still felt dizzy.
Doctor, could this lead to a brain hemorrhage or a concussion? If there is a brain hemorrhage, what symptoms should we look for? And what symptoms would indicate a concussion? I am really worried, so I would like your response.
The second question is about a point on my boyfriend's spine that hurts and feels sore when pressed or touched.
Doctor, could this be a bone spur? What are the symptoms of a bone spur, and what treatment options are available? I am truly concerned, so I would appreciate your answers.
Thank you very much.
I really care about my boyfriend.

Baobao, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/04/10

Dr. Chen Changmu reply Neurosurgery

Thank you for your question.
Both cerebral hemorrhage and concussion can present with symptoms such as vomiting and headaches, and in severe cases, there may be altered consciousness.
If dizziness persists for one or two days, it is generally advisable to monitor the situation, but one should remain vigilant for any worsening symptoms, and if there are concerns, it is best to consult a physician directly.
It is uncommon for a 16-year-old to have bone spurs; the cause of back pain is more likely due to scoliosis or muscle soreness from poor posture.
If the discomfort is significant, I recommend visiting a clinic for further evaluation!

Reply Date: 2004/04/10

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your concerns about your boyfriend's head injury and spine pain. It's understandable to be worried, especially when it comes to potential head injuries and spinal issues. Let’s break down your questions.

Head Injury Concerns
1. Head Injury and Symptoms: After your boyfriend hit his head against a hard surface, the immediate symptoms of dizziness and headache can be concerning. These symptoms can indicate a concussion, which is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). Concussions can occur even without a loss of consciousness. Common symptoms of a concussion include:
- Headache
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
If he experiences any of these symptoms, especially worsening headaches, confusion, repeated vomiting, or seizures, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

2. Risk of Intracranial Bleeding: Intracranial bleeding, such as a subdural hematoma or epidural hematoma, can occur after a head injury. Symptoms of brain bleeding may include:
- Severe headache
- Weakness or numbness in limbs
- Slurred speech
- Loss of consciousness
- Confusion or agitation
- Seizures
If your boyfriend shows any of these symptoms, it is essential to get him evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

Spine Pain Concerns
1. Spinal Pain: Regarding the pain he feels in his spine, especially when pressed, it could be due to several reasons, including muscle strain, ligament injury, or even a herniated disc. If the pain is localized and sharp, it may indicate a muscle or ligament issue. However, if the pain radiates down his arms or legs, it could suggest nerve involvement.

2. Bone Spurs (Osteophytes): Bone spurs, or osteophytes, can develop due to degenerative changes in the spine, often related to conditions like osteoarthritis. Symptoms of bone spurs can include:
- Localized pain at the site of the spur
- Numbness or tingling if the spur compresses nearby nerves
- Weakness in the arms or legs
Treatment options for bone spurs may include:
- Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and improve flexibility
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief
- In some cases, corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
- Surgery may be considered if conservative treatments fail and symptoms persist.

Recommendations
- Immediate Evaluation: Given the head injury and the symptoms your boyfriend is experiencing, it is advisable for him to see a healthcare professional. A doctor may perform a neurological examination and possibly imaging studies (like a CT scan or MRI) to rule out serious injuries.

- Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a close watch on his symptoms. If they worsen or new symptoms develop, seek medical attention promptly.

- Spinal Care: For the spinal pain, encourage him to avoid activities that exacerbate the pain and consider consulting a physical therapist or a spine specialist for a thorough evaluation and tailored treatment plan.

In conclusion, both head injuries and spinal issues require careful attention. It’s great that you are looking out for your boyfriend’s health. Encourage him to seek medical advice to ensure he receives the appropriate care. Thank you for your questions, and I hope this information helps alleviate some of your concerns!

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